You had to provide a passport or ID number to buy 2006 World Cup tickets, which are microchipped and registered to specific individuals. All to prevent counterfeit and scalping. Did it work? Host Kai Ryssdal talks to Jamie Trecker of Fox Sports.

What's it like to experience the world's biggest sporting event live? Host Tess Vigeland talks to Marketplace's Scott Jagow in Germany, where he's been enjoying the World Cup &mdash; and all its host nation has to offer.

Roger Clemens is expected to return to the Houston Astros pitching rotation Thursday after coming out of retirement. But at 43, is he worth his $12 million contract for half a season? Ethan Lindsey reports.

The World Cup kicks off today in Germany. Adidas has traditionally dominated the soccer arena. But as Marketplace's Tess Vigeland reports, Nike is making a bigger push than ever to win over the sport's fans.